Recently, I faced a hacking attack due to which my VPS ( Virtual Private Server) was disabled by hosting service provider and all my websites were down almost for 18 hours! The server was hacked by some hacker and were using the server to attack other servers all around the world!
Since I had no other option but to reset it to default and putting back the websites manually one by one! It was very difficult for me to put back all the websites! During the process, I learnt few things :-
1. Always use daily Snap Backup service by the hosting provider! It may cost you money but its worth it!
2. While installing CMS ( Content Management Software) like WordPress, always create your own databases. If you use those One click installer, make sure to give names, user name, and password of your choice! These comes in handy when you have to put back the database in future manually!
3. Remember to change your root password monthly at least! If one can keep changing weekly, much better!
4. One should monitor server usage, CPU, Memory and space daily. Also if possible, put email alerts if any of those resources cross certain thresh hold. This will you monitor if any unusual activity in your server. Some regular distraction, but it saves lot of pain!
5. When your hosting provider does not respond to your support tickets, pick your phone and call them up! Most of the time, phone call is the fastest way to get help. Phone call also alerts support team about the seriousness of the problem.
These are my thinking after a really a nasty hacking attack and pain of putting back many websites manually! Be smart, learn from others mistakes!